Ruler wants state govt to ensure status of Malay reserve land is maintained

By A. RUBAN
ruban_22@thestar.com.my

SHAH ALAM: The Sultan of Selangor wants the state government to ensure no Malay reserve land is transferred to non-Malays.

“I believe the Menteri Besar and all state government staff involved in land matters will always be wary in ensuring Malay reserve land does not lose its status,” the Sultan said at the opening of state assembly session yesterday.

Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah also said he wanted land encroachment in the state to be eradicated.

Describing land as the state's main asset, the Sultan said he hoped the Selangor Government together with corporate organisations and the rakyat would play their roles in putting an end to land encroachment.

On another matter, Sultan Sharafuddin said he consented when Mentri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim took up the position of exco in charge of Islamic religious affairs.

“I believe the Mentri Besar can work together with his department in strengthening the stand of the Muslims in the state,” said the Sultan.

He added that the state government must always make sure the Muslims were not left behind as the state progressed.

“Muslims, who are the majority here, can make a positive contribution in the economic sector if due consideration is given to them,” said the Sultan.

On the 12th Selangor assembly meeting, the Sultan said he wanted all assemblymen to actively take part and discuss issues involving the people.

“Political differences should not be a hindrance to help the people and I hope the House will be a good platform to discuss matters involving my people,” said the Sultan.

The Sultan also called for the state government to adopt “smart governance” by making use of the latest technology in administrating the state.

“With the emergence of Internet, it can definitely speed up state economic process,” said the Sultan.